PHOSPHORUS UTILIZATION EFFICIENCY IN WEST AFRICAN DWARF (WAD) GOATS: EVALUATING GROUNDNUT CAKE, DRIED ACTIVATED SEWAGE SLUDGE, AND POULTRY WASTE BASED DIETS

Abstract This study was carried out to evaluate phosphorus utilization efficiency in diets containing Groundnut Cake (GNC), Dried Activated Sewage Sludge (DASS), and Poultry Waste (PW) using eighteen West African Dwarf (WAD) goats. Phosphorus digestibility was assessed and it showed significant differences in utilization among diets. Digestibility coefficients for phosphorus were 56.46% (GNC), 51.06% (DASS), and 60.20% (PW). Statistical analysis showed significant differences (P<0.05) in phosphorus intake and retention across the three diets, with PW demonstrating the highest phosphorus balance. These findings highlight the potential of alternative feed sources to enhance phosphorus nutrition in WAD goats while also supporting sustainable and cost-effective livestock management practices.